Procedures for finding a job in Japan

Procedures for changing residence status

Foreign nationals residing in Japan can stay in Japan under one of 29 different statuses of residence, and can only engage in activities within the scope stipulated by each status of residence.

If you, as an international student, wish to find a job in Japan, you will need to change your current residence status of “Student” to one that allows you to work, such as “Engineer/Specialist in Humanities/International Services.

Even if you do not find a job by the time you graduate, you can continue job hunting for one year after graduating from university by completing the procedure to change your status of residence from “Study Abroad” to “Designated Activities.” (This status of residence is for 6 months and can be renewed only once, so the maximum period is 1 year after graduation.)

Application procedure

As a general rule, the applicant should go to the nearest Regional Immigration Bureau, branch office, or branch office to complete the procedures for changing the status of residence from “study abroad” to various types of employment. It is best to call to confirm reception hours. At that time, the following documents must be submitted:

List of documents required for changing residence status

Documents to be submitted when changing to “Engineer/Specialist in Humanities/International Services

Things to prepare by yourself	・Passport (or travel document) in your name ・Residence card ・Application for change of residence status: Application form can be obtained at the counter. ・Resume: Free format ・Accurately fill out your educational background/job type
What you will receive from your employer	・Copy of your employment contract: A letter of appointment or recruitment letter from the employing company is also acceptable. It is necessary to specify the job type (as detailed as possible), employment period, and amount of remuneration. ・A certified copy of the commercial corporation registration of the employing company: one issued within the last three months. Financial report (balance sheet/income statement) ・Company information: Pamphlet, etc. that describes the business details of the employing company
What you will receive from the university	・Original copy of your graduation certificate (certificate of expected graduation)

Procedures to change residence status
from “studying abroad” to “specific activities (for continued job hunting)”

Things to prepare yourself

・One copy of application for permission to change residence status (form prepared at local immigration office) ・photograph ・passport ・Residence card or alien registration certificate deemed to be a residence card ・Document proving the applicant’s ability to pay all expenses during his/her stay in Japan ・Text that proves your identity, etc.